Angler Says Paloma River Lodge in Chile Offers “Spectacular” Fishing

Pat Durno has filed a very useful and interesting report on his visit to Paloma River Lodge in Chile (www.palomariverlodge.com) this past February. Durno says he was part of a group of six anglers, four of whom (including himself) are old hands at fishing in this part of the world. Despite what he calls pretty awful weather and some minor deficiencies at the lodge, he gives the trip good marks. He writes:

“Our trip to Paloma River Lodge would have been much better if the weather had cooperated. It was cold, and we had rain and high winds, but our group had a good experience anyway. Remarkably, we didn’t see another angler the whole week. We spent most of our time floating the Paloma River, but there were opportunities to wade, as well, including a small feeder stream. I’d say we averaged about 10 to 15 fish a day on the river, mostly on dry flies. We also fished on two nearby lakes. I have never been particularly fond of lake fishing but this fishing experience was spectacular, especially the scenery: big lakes surrounded by mountains and picturesque waterfalls. We fished exclusively along the shore to rocks, downed trees, and similar pieces of cover, which made the fishing fun for me. We definitely had to hit our spots. Our average catch was a bit higher on the lakes than in the streams, and all the fish we caught in the lakes were very nice, heavy fish. Two of the largest measured 23 inches.

“Paul Kinney, an American who also manages Yan Kee Way and El Patagon Lodges in Chile, owns Paloma River Lodge. He is very service oriented. The head guide, Feña Barros, and the two other guides were excellent. The lodge itself is situated on the river. The accommodations were more than adequate, but definitely not what you would call luxurious. There are four private rooms and a double room, all with private baths. A generator powers the lodge, but I would be remiss not to note that the lights went dim occasionally and the hot water in the showers could be tricky. The Chilean wine was quite good and the food, while not gourmet quality, was very good as well. On our last night, we were treated to a whole lamb roasted on an open fire. The dinner was orchestrated by a local gaucho and his family, who also provided ox cart transportation to the dinner site. This was a very nice event and a great way to end the week.

“My group and I had good fishing, and I recommend the lodge, especially if you are looking to get away from the crowds that frequent some of the rivers in Chilean Patagonia. Given the low population density in this area (possibly the result of no government-provided electricity or water), this comes close to being a wilderness experience.”

Postscript: Durno gives the cost of his trip from Sunday to Saturday as $3,250 per angler, not including guide and lodge tips. Wine and other alcohol was included.